Stress blog

Embrace the new season and the opportunities it offers

Despite competition from other sports, baseball remains "America's game." The tradition of the national pastime is embedded in the fabric of American life. The annual ritual of spring training is now underway.

You may have little interest in the game, but there are some important lessons from a stress management perspective that you can emulate:

Start with a clean slate. At the start of spring training, every team is in first place. Every team has a chance to win the World Series. Teams have to let go of the mistakes and missed opportunities of last season so that they can prepare for the upcoming season.

Focus on success. Every team focuses on the fundamentals and on doing the little things that make a difference. Focus, concentration and anticipation are crucial to success.

Everyone has setbacks, disappointments and missed opportunities. But wallowing in the past and focusing on the negatives is a sure way to doom your future. So put the past behind you and embrace today as the beginning of your new season. Baseball fans or not, weigh in. We need each other. We need a community to keep us stay safe and sound.

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